retreat

retreat

noun

Definition of RETREAT

1

an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable <we made a strategic retreat when we realized that we were outnumbered>

Synonyms pullback, pullout, recession, retirement, withdrawal

Related Words rout; flinch, recoil, revulsion, shrinking; disengagement, disentanglement

Antonyms advance, advancement

2

something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger <her bedroom served as a retreat from the frequent arguing between her parents> <the abandoned cabin was a welcome retreat from the storm>

Synonyms asylum, bolt-hole [chiefly British], harbor, harborage, haven, refuge, retreat, sanctuary, sanctum

Related Words oasis; anchorage, mooring, port; cover, screen; abode, diggings, domicile, dwelling, habitation, house, housing, lodging, lodgment (or lodgement), pad, place, quarters, residence, rest, roof; cloister, closet, covert, den, hermitage, hideaway, hideout, lair; castle, fastness, fort, fortress, palisade, redoubt, stronghold; lean-to, lee, shed, windbreak